Powering ahead

Do you believe that “curiosity killed the cat”? I don’t. This proverb may be a wise warning against poking into other people’s affairs. However, its application ends there. In fact, curiosity is one of 24 Character Strengths identified by Chris Peterson and Martin Seligman (Character Strengths and Virtues: A Handbook and Classification.) This acclaimed advert…

Flowers provide universal delight whether monochrome and of a delicate persuasion or an exuberant festoon of colour and perfume. As our senses are engaged, so emotions are mobilised. Flowers can be a gift to both the giver and receiver, as neatly expressed by Confucius, “flowers leave some of their fragrance on the hand that bestows…

Take a look at the pictures above. What do you see? In the CBD in Sydney there’s a construction site on a corner. Nothing remarkable in that you may be thinking. You will easily be able to picture the scene of people scurrying past, many looking at their mobile phones. For those who do look…

Framing is essentially how you see the world. Whether you are an introvert or extrovert, it is quite normal to have a constant running commentary in your head. This can serve a useful purpose as you take note of your surroundings and process the myriad possible responses and actions. However, it is also common to…

Are you fulfilled and enjoying life? Or, are you eking out a limited quota in the belief that you can draw on the Bank of Enjoyment in old age? In fact, there is no need to settle for life on a treadmill. All too many people think that success leads to enjoyment. Research shows that…

Decisions, decisions, decisions – they confront us all the time. Acquiring the habit of spending the right amount of time on decisions and committing to efficient implementation will free up more time for whatever you deem most important in your life. Solving five choice conundrums 1. I have ‘analysis paralysis’ Set a time limit…

Whether a challenge is self-directed or imposed, there is a sense of being stretched or tested in some way. This immediately begs the questions ‘Do I want it and why?’, ‘Am I up to it?’ or ‘What if I fail?’. The hallmark of successful people is that they carve out a life of significance by…

What’s your personal brand? We are totally familiar with consumer brands conveying an impression. After all, a designer handbag is so much more than a container and a sports car so much more than a means of transport. While people are full of complexity and contradiction, our words and actions send out signals. Have you…

Are you taking responsibility and being the leader of your own life? This question can be interpreted at two levels. Are you assuming responsibility for your actions and thoughts? Do you see yourself in the driving seat with your gaze ahead and with constructive self-talk? Or are you beset by doubts, uncertainty or lethargy and are…

Imagine yourself with your sights firmly on the main chance – your epitome of success. You do everything in your power to achieve your objective of being the person who is “out front”. You meet with some success but not the universal acclaim that you had hoped for. What do you do next? There are…